Spiders fall to Sam Houston State despite Lauletta's record performance

RICHMOND, VA (WWBT) - Kyle Lauletta threw for 546 passing yards and five touchdowns, but it was not enough, as Richmond fell in its season opener to Sam Houston State, 48-34.

Lauletta's 546 yards are the most ever in a single game by a Spider quarterback, and fifth-most in CAA history. He also matched his career high with the five touchdown passes.

The most action came in the second quarter, with the Bearkats scoring an eye-popping 35 points in the frame. The two teams combined for six scores in the final 7:02 of the first half. Every time Richmond pulled to within a touchdown, it seemed Sam Houston always immediately would answer and open the gap back up again. The Bearkats held a comfortable 41-20 lead at the break and opened the second half scoring with a touchdown to spread the margin to 28.

Cortrelle Simpson shined for the Spiders at wide receiver in the loss, hauling in seven catches for 204 yards and a touchdown. Dejon Brissett caught nine passes for 172 yards and a score. Richmond posted 652 yards of total offense, while Sam Houston State put up 683.

Richmond falls to 0-1 on the season and is back on the road next weekend, as the Spiders travel to Colgate next Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00pm.